Tech tips- Driver update tips
 

Everyone here is in the search for the highest framerates possible in SH4.

Since ATi and Nvidia have released newer drivers and some people are having problems, thought I'd post this. If you are going to roll back to an earlier release, I'd HIGHLY ADVISE using a cleaner tool of some kind.

1. Download and install one or both of these tools:

Nasty file remover- http://www.majorgeeks.com/download.php?det=3233

Driver Cleaner- free or pay for version

free version- 2006 release http://downloads.guru3d.com/download.php?det=745
or
Current version- $10 download http://www.drivercleaner.net/

2. Uninstall old drivers per mfg directions

3. boot to safe mode, go to the hardware manager and make sure old drivers do not show up (this will happen occasionally). BTW, if you've ever updated your drivers for video or sound and have a problem. Boot to safe mode and see if your video or sound card is listed twice in the hardware manager- happens once in a while and will mess with your system royally. Uninstall using the hardware manager while in safe mode if you see either of these problems (r-click on device, choose uninstall)

4. Delete any driver file directories left.

5. Reboot

6. Run the tools you downloaded- follow instructions to fix issues

7. Install new drivers.

Although driver sets come with their own uninstallers, they are sometimes sloppy about removing everything. If you install pre-release or beta drivers you definitely need to do this before rolling back to an earlier release or updating to the final release drivers.

Good info and instructions.

I'd just like to add that if things are working well for you, do NOT jump on new drivers as soon as they are released. I can't count the number of computers I've repaired because someone updated their drivers when they really didn't need to. I personally wait a while and check reports of what the new driver is like (what it does better/compatibility with software/etc) before I install them.

Newer isn't always better. In fact, the latest and greatest usually lead to more tech issues than being a generation behind the bleeding edge of technology.

Cheers!

Ill have to echo this with the old adage... if it works dont try to fix it.

I use the driver that came with my nvidia card and don't have any problems. " Knock on Wood " :D

Good advice. Don't get fooled into thinking "this time, these new drivers will magically double my frame rate!" They won't.

With any new video card, I always go to the Nvidia website and download the latest version of the Drivers at the time of purchase. Then I leave well alone unless I see problems....which has yet to happen. :D

Good Advice TDK1044 :up:

Man, doesn't anyone here live on the bleeding edge? You guys are no fun. :D

-S